The best female rappers are celebrated for their exceptional lyrical skills, dynamic delivery, and trailblazing impact on hip-hop. Artists like Missy Elliott and Lauryn Hill have revolutionized the genre with innovative styles and powerful messages. Nicki Minaj has made her mark with versatile flows and a distinctive persona, while Queen Latifah has been a pioneer in blending rap with social activism. Cardi B’s bold presence and chart-topping hits further underscore the genre’s evolving landscape. These artists not only excel in technical skill but also push boundaries, addressing diverse themes and inspiring future generations in the male-dominated world of rap.
1. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah, born Dana Owens on March 18, 1970, is an American rapper, singer, actress, and producer known for her groundbreaking contributions to hip-hop and entertainment. Emerging in the late 1980s, she became one of the first female rappers to gain widespread recognition with her debut album “All Hail the Queen” (1989), featuring empowering tracks like “Ladies First.” Queen Latifah’s impact extends beyond music; she has achieved significant success in acting, with roles in films like “Chicago” and television series like “Living Single” and “The Equalizer.” Her versatility and pioneering spirit have made her a prominent figure in both music and media.
2. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill, born Lauryn Noelle Hill on May 26, 1975, in East Orange, New Jersey, is an influential American singer, songwriter, rapper, and actress known for her profound impact on music and culture.
Hill first gained fame as a member of the Fugees, a hip-hop group that achieved critical and commercial success in the 1990s with their acclaimed album *The Score* (1996). The album featured hit singles like “Killing Me Softly,” “Ready or Not,” and “No Woman, No Cry,” showcasing Hill’s powerful vocals and lyrical skills.
Her solo debut, *The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill* (1998), is widely considered a landmark album in both hip-hop and R&B. The album’s blend of soul, reggae, and hip-hop, along with its introspective and socially conscious lyrics, received widespread acclaim. It featured hits like “Doo Wop (That Thing),” “Ex-Factor,” and “Everything Is Everything,” and won five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.
Beyond her music career, Hill has acted in films such as *Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit* (1993) and has been involved in various philanthropic and social justice efforts. Despite her significant impact on music, Hill’s career has been marked by periods of relative silence and limited releases.
Lauryn Hill’s influence extends through her innovative approach to blending genres and her powerful, emotionally resonant music. She remains a respected and iconic figure in contemporary music.
3. Missy Elliott
Missy Elliott, born Melissa Arnette Elliott on July 1, 1971, in Portsmouth, Virginia, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer known for her groundbreaking contributions to hip-hop and R&B. Her innovative style and creative music videos have made her one of the most influential artists in contemporary music.
Elliott first gained recognition in the 1990s as a member of the all-female group Sista, but it was her solo career that solidified her place in the music industry. Her debut album, *Supa Dupa Fly* (1997), was a critical and commercial success, featuring the hit single “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” and showcasing her unique sound and style.
Missy Elliott continued to achieve success with subsequent albums, including *Da Real World* (1999), *Miss E… So Addictive* (2001), and *Under Construction* (2002). Her work is characterized by its eclectic production, innovative use of rhythm and sound, and memorable music videos. Songs like “Get Ur Freak On,” “Work It,” and “Lose Control” became anthems and demonstrated her ability to blend hip-hop with other genres.
In addition to her solo work, Elliott has written and produced for numerous artists, including Aaliyah, Beyoncé, and Janet Jackson. She is celebrated for her influence on modern hip-hop and R&B, her pioneering approach to music videos, and her contributions to the development of the genre. Missy Elliott’s legacy is marked by her creativity, originality, and impact on popular music.
4. Lil’ Kim
Lil’ Kim, born Kimberly Denise Jones on July 11, 1974, in Brooklyn, New York, is an influential American rapper known for her bold style, provocative lyrics, and significant impact on hip-hop. She emerged as a prominent figure in the late 1990s and early 2000s and is celebrated for her contributions to the genre and her role in redefining female rap.
Lil’ Kim first gained recognition as a member of Junior M.A.F.I.A., a group led by The Notorious B.I.G. Her debut solo album, *Hard Core* (1996), was a critical and commercial success, featuring hits like “No Time” and “Crush on You.” The album showcased her confidence, lyrical prowess, and a fearless approach to her persona.
Her subsequent albums, including *The Notorious K.I.M.* (2000) and *La Bella Mafia* (2003), further solidified her place in hip-hop with hit singles such as “Lady Marmalade” (with Christina Aguilera, Mýa, and Pink) and “Lighters Up.” Lil’ Kim is known for her provocative lyrics and bold fashion choices, which have contributed to her influential and often controversial image.
In addition to her music career, Lil’ Kim has ventured into acting and business, and she remains an iconic figure in hip-hop. Her impact is marked by her role in shaping the landscape of female rap and her contributions to the genre’s evolution.
5. Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj on December 8, 1982, in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago, is an influential American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for her distinctive voice, vibrant persona, and versatile musical style.
Minaj gained initial recognition with her mixtapes, particularly *Beam Me Up Scotty* (2009), which helped her secure a record deal and launch her mainstream career. Her debut album, *Pink Friday* (2010), was a major success, featuring hit singles like “Super Bass,” “Moment 4 Life,” and “Your Love.” The album established her as a leading figure in hip-hop and pop.
She continued her success with subsequent albums, including *Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded* (2012), *The Pinkprint* (2014), and *Queen* (2018). Hits such as “Starships,” “Bang Bang” (with Ariana Grande and Jessie J), and “Anaconda” showcased her ability to blend rap with pop and dance elements.
Nicki Minaj is known for her elaborate costumes, diverse vocal styles, and dynamic performances. She has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy nominations, and has been recognized for her impact on modern hip-hop and pop music. Beyond her music career, Minaj has ventured into acting, fashion, and business, further cementing her influence on contemporary culture.
6. Salt-N-Pepa
Salt-N-Pepa, formed in 1985, is an American hip-hop group consisting of Cheryl “Salt” James, Sandra “Pepa” Denton, and DJ Spinderella (Deidra Roper). Known for their pioneering role in female rap, they achieved widespread success with their groundbreaking blend of rap and pop. Their debut album, “Hot, Cool & Vicious” (1986), featured hits like “Push It,” which became an iconic anthem of the 1980s. Salt-N-Pepa’s lyrics often addressed themes of empowerment and sexuality, and they were instrumental in bringing female perspectives to mainstream hip-hop. Their influence extends beyond music, making them enduring figures in the genre’s history.
7. Foxy Brown
Foxy Brown, born Inga DeCarlo Fung Marchand on September 6, 1978, in Brooklyn, New York, is an American rapper known for her sultry voice, confident delivery, and significant contributions to hip-hop.
She first gained attention in the late 1990s with her debut album, *Ill Na Na* (1996), which featured hit singles like “Get Me Home” and “I’ll Be.” Her debut established her as a prominent female rapper in a male-dominated genre. Foxy Brown’s follow-up albums, *Chyna Doll* (1999) and *Broken Silence* (2001), continued to showcase her lyrical prowess and commercial appeal.
Brown is known for her collaborations with other prominent artists, including Jay-Z, Nas, and Lil’ Kim. Her work often features a blend of braggadocious lyrics and smooth, seductive delivery, which contributed to her success and popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Throughout her career, Foxy Brown has faced various legal and personal challenges but remains a respected figure in hip-hop. Her influence is noted for her role in paving the way for future female rappers and her impact on the genre during her peak years.
8. Eve
Eve, born Eve Jihan Jeffers on November 10, 1978, is an American rapper, singer, and actress known for her impactful contributions to hip-hop. Emerging in the late 1990s, she gained recognition with her debut album “Let There Be Eve…Ruff Ryders’ First Lady” (1999), which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. Her hit singles, including “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” (featuring Gwen Stefani) and “Who’s That Girl,” showcased her distinctive voice and charismatic style. Beyond music, Eve has had a successful acting career, with notable roles in films like “Barbershop” and the TV series “Eve.” Her versatility and influence in both music and entertainment are widely recognized.
9. Remy Ma
Remy Ma, born Reminisce Smith on May 30, 1980, in The Bronx, New York, is an American rapper known for her powerful delivery, lyrical dexterity, and significant contributions to hip-hop.
Remy Ma first gained prominence as a member of the Terror Squad, a hip-hop collective led by Fat Joe. Her debut album, *There’s Something About Remy: Based on a True Story* (2006), was well-received and included the hit single “Lean Back” with Fat Joe, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining anthem of the mid-2000s.
Her career faced challenges due to legal issues, including a prison sentence from 2008 to 2014 on charges related to assault and firearm possession. Despite these setbacks, Remy Ma made a strong comeback with her 2017 album *7 Winters & 6 Summers* and the hit single “All the Way Up” with Fat Joe, which earned her critical acclaim and commercial success.
Remy Ma is known for her fierce lyricism and her role in shaping the landscape of female rap. Her contributions to hip-hop, combined with her resilience and comeback, have solidified her reputation as a powerful and influential artist in the genre.
10. Da Brat
Da Brat, born Shawntae Harris on April 14, 1974, is an American rapper known for her distinctive voice and energetic style. Emerging in the mid-1990s, she gained prominence with her debut album “Funkdafied” (1994), which made her the first female solo rapper to achieve platinum status. Her hit singles, including “Funkdafied” and “Give It 2 You,” showcased her dynamic flow and playful lyrics. Da Brat’s influence extends beyond music, with appearances in television and film, contributing to her status as a prominent figure in hip-hop. Her pioneering role and contributions to the genre have solidified her legacy in rap history.
11. Trina
Trina, born Katrina Laverne Taylor on December 3, 1978, is an American rapper and songwriter known for her bold and confident style. Rising to prominence in the late 1990s, she gained attention with her debut album “Da Baddest Bitch” (2000), which showcased her distinct voice and charismatic delivery. Trina’s subsequent albums, including “Diamond Princess” and “Glamorest Life,” reinforced her status as a leading female rapper in hip-hop. Known for hits like “Pull Over” and “Here We Go,” her lyrics often focus on empowerment and self-assurance. Trina’s influence and contributions to the genre have established her as a prominent figure in rap.
12. Yo-Yo
Yo-Yo, born Yolanda Whitaker on August 4, 1971, is an American rapper and actress known for her impactful contributions to hip-hop in the 1990s. Emerging with a strong, assertive voice, she gained prominence with her debut album “Make Way for the Motherlode” (1991), which featured socially conscious and empowering lyrics. Yo-Yo’s collaborations with artists like Ice Cube and her work on the album “Black Pearl” (1992) solidified her status as a key figure in female rap. Beyond music, Yo-Yo has been an advocate for women’s rights and education, and her influence extends through her activism and acting roles.
13. MC Lyte
MC Lyte, born Lana Michelle Moorer on October 11, 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, is an influential American rapper and one of the pioneering female MCs in hip-hop. Known for her commanding voice, lyrical skill, and impactful contributions to the genre, MC Lyte played a significant role in shaping the early days of hip-hop.
She made her debut with the single “I Cram to Understand U” in 1987, and her first album, *Lyte as a Rock* (1988), was groundbreaking, featuring hits like “Cha Cha Cha” and “Paper Thin.” Her ability to deliver sharp, insightful lyrics with confidence helped establish her as a formidable presence in a male-dominated industry.
MC Lyte’s subsequent albums, including *Eyes on This* (1989) and *Ain’t No Other* (1993), continued to showcase her lyrical prowess and versatility. Tracks such as “Ruffneck” and “Cold Rock a Party” became hits and solidified her reputation as a leading figure in hip-hop.
In addition to her music career, MC Lyte has been involved in various ventures, including acting, voice-over work, and philanthropy. She is also recognized for her advocacy for women’s rights and her efforts to support and mentor emerging artists. MC Lyte’s contributions to hip-hop and her impact as a trailblazing female artist have earned her a respected place in the history of the genre.
14. Monie Love
Monie Love, born Simone Gooden on July 2, 1970, is a British-American rapper known for her distinctive voice and contributions to hip-hop in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Emerging as a prominent figure in the rap scene, she gained recognition with her debut album “Down to Earth” (1990), which featured hits like “Monie in the Middle” and “It’s a Shame (My Sister).” Monie Love’s lyrical style and impactful delivery made her a notable female rapper in a male-dominated genre. Her contributions helped pave the way for future female artists, and her influence extends through her work in music and broadcasting.
15. Jean Grae
Jean Grae, born Tsidi Ibrahim on November 26, 1976, in Cape Town, South Africa, is an American rapper, songwriter, and producer known for her intricate lyrics, distinctive voice, and versatile style. Raised in New York City, she began her career in the underground hip-hop scene and has been celebrated for her sharp lyricism and originality.
Jean Grae’s debut album, *Attack of the Attacking Things* (2002), introduced her as a significant talent in hip-hop, with its clever wordplay and thought-provoking themes. She continued to build her reputation with subsequent releases, including *This Week* (2004) and *The Evil Jeanius* (2008), showcasing her ability to blend insightful social commentary with personal reflection.
Grae is known for her collaborations with various artists, including Talib Kweli, 9th Wonder, and Pharoahe Monch. Her work often features a blend of introspective and socially conscious lyrics, demonstrating her versatility and depth as an artist.
In addition to her music career, Jean Grae has been involved in various creative projects, including acting and writing. Her impact on hip-hop is marked by her unique voice and her contributions to the genre’s evolution, particularly in the realm of conscious and underground rap.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
